Which medication is used for the management of chronic hypertension in pregnancy?

Labetalol is often used for the management of chronic hypertension during pregnancy due to its effectiveness in controlling blood pressure while minimizing potential risks to the fetus. This medication is a combined alpha and beta-adrenergic blocker, which helps to lower blood pressure without significantly affecting uteroplacental blood flow. It is preferred for its safety profile compared to other antihypertensive agents and the rapid onset of action.

In addition, labetalol has been shown to reduce maternal blood pressure and improve outcomes for both the mother and the fetus in cases of chronic hypertension or hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. This makes it a first-line choice among healthcare providers for managing hypertension in pregnant patients.

Other options, while they may also be considered in certain situations, do not have the same level of preference or established effectiveness as labetalol. Hydrochlorothiazide, for instance, is generally not recommended for the treatment of hypertension in pregnancy due to concerns regarding its effects on fetal growth. Amlodipine is frequently used for hypertension but may not be as effective or safe as labetalol in the pregnant population. Methyldopa is another medication that can be prescribed but tends to be used less frequently nowadays compared to labetalol, which has